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Surface anatomy is an important skill for students in preparation for patient care, and peer examination is often used to teach musculoskeletal and surface anatomy. An alternative pedagogical approach is to use bodies represented in artworks. Represented bodies display fictive anatomy, providing students with the opportunity to apply their musculoskeletal knowledge and to think critically when evaluating the anatomical fidelity of a represented body. An elective course at the University of Michigan enabled undergraduate students to analyze the musculoskeletal and surface anatomy depicted in Renaissance artworks. Students traveled to Italy in 2018 (n = 14) and 2022 (n = 15) to analyze the fictive anatomy portrayed in artistic sculptures and musculoskeletal structures depicted in wax anatomy models and sculpted skeletons. In assignments, students were asked to identify musculoskeletal structures as portrayed in the context of represented anatomy created by Italian Renaissance artists and to assess the fidelity of the depicted anatomy. The students also applied their knowledge of musculoskeletal anatomy to describe body position and evaluate muscle function in their assessments of the accuracy or inaccuracy of the fictive anatomy. The students reported that evaluating the anatomical fidelity of represented bodies in artworks supported their learning of musculoskeletal and surface anatomy, and that their critical thinking skills improved in the course. Evaluation of the anatomical fidelity of represented bodies in artworks is an effective pedagogical approach that can be implemented in art museums as an adjunctive learning experience to deepen students' musculoskeletal and surface anatomy knowledge and further develop their critical thinking skills. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Documented skeletal collections are valuable resources for anthropological studies aimed at reconstruction of the biological profile and examination of osteological trauma and pathology. The Free State Collection for Anthropological Research is a new, contemporary skeletal collection, based in central South Africa that has become available for such studies. This paper aims to provide an overview of the collection to encourage its future use in national and international research. The collection currently contains 64 female and 122 male skeletons of individuals that have died in the Free State province since the year 2000. Black individuals constitute 94.6% of the collection. Age-at-death ranges between 19 and 86 years, with an overall mean of 40 years. Year-of-birth ranges from 1927 to 1991. Tuberculosis (22.6%) and influenza/pneumonia (20.4%) are the most common cause of death for these individuals. Although the current demographic profile of the collection is skewed, new individuals are continuously being added. The collection offers several opportunities for anthropological research. The relatively young age-at-death and contemporary nature of the collection make it a useful tool for validation of existing methods for estimations of components of the biological profile. It can also be used in conjunction with other collections for the development of new methods for age and sex estimation and studies of trauma and disease manifestation of the skeleton. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Anatomical variations of the sciatic nerve were supposed as potential causes for incomplete blocks at the level of the popliteal fossa. Therefore, we aimed to conduct an anatomical and ultrasound survey of the mid-femoral sciatic nerve and its division. A regional block of the sciatic nerve is a procedure for analgesia and anaesthesia of the lower extremity. Various approaches to the sciatic nerve are used in clinical practice. However, the sciatic nerve demonstrates several variations regarding its topography and division. The anatomical study included twenty lower limbs of ten adult cadavers. The ultrasound study involved ten upper legs of five healthy volunteers The sciatic nerve was found distally to the piriformis muscle in all our cadaveric specimens. It was divided into two major branches (common peroneal nerve and tibial nerve) at a mean distance of 68.1 ± 19.3 mm above the popliteal crease. The observed distances ranged widely from 35 to 113 mm. The mid-femoral sciatic nerve and its division were entirely revealed using ultrasound in all volunteers. The sciatic nerve presents significant anatomical variations, which may cause an incomplete block. Understanding ultrasound anatomy and ultrasound appearance of the sciatic nerve is essential for performing ultrasound-guided sciatic blocks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the long-term clinical, functional, and radiological outcomes of operative and nonoperative treated patients with thoracolumbar fracture. Materials and Methods: Between January 2016 and December 2021, data of patients hospitalized in our clinic due to thoracolumbar (T11-L2) fracture were collected and analyzed. Results: Two hundred eighteen patients met the inclusion criteria. One hundred thirty eight patients (63.3%) were operated and 80 patients (36.7%) were treated with nonsurgical methods. The duration of follow-up ranged from 13 to 82 months. There was a significant difference between the first admission oswestry disability index (ODI) and visual analog scale (VAS) and the final visit ODI and VAS when both operative and nonoperative treatment patients were evaluated separately and when evaluated together. The scores at the last control visit were significantly lower than the initial scores (p<0.001). When the fracture level was compared with the ODI and VAS, a significant difference was observed in the ODI score at the first admission (p=0.03). The ODI score at first admission was highest in patients with T11 fractures and lowest in patients with L2 fractures. There was a significant correlation between the "Anterior Vertebral Body Compression Percentage %" and four-vessel cerebral angiography (p<0.001). Conclusion: Patients with high vertebral depression and low functionality were operated, and regardless of the treatment protocol, pain decreased and functionality increased in all patients. The height of the vertebral corpus affects the angle of kyphosis, and surgical management is needed for the kyphotic deformity. Patients with high thoracolumbar fractures were more painful. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Curricular development and modification involve first identifying a problem and then performing a needs assessment, which can guide the design of curricular components. Pedagogical changes, coupled with reductions in curricular time for gross anatomy, pose challenges and impose restrictions within medical school curricula. In order to make anatomy education effective and efficient, it is important to determine the anatomy considered essential for medical education through a targeted needs assessment. In this study, 50 adult primary care resident physicians in family medicine (FM) and internal medicine (IM) were surveyed to assess the importance of 907 anatomical structures, or groups of structures, across all anatomical regions from a curated list based on the boldface terms in four primary anatomy texts. There were no statistically significant differences in the ratings of structures between the two groups for any anatomical region. In total, 17.0% of structures, or groups of structures, were classified as essential, 58.0% as more important, 24.4% as less important, and 0.7% as not important. FM residents rated tissues classified as skeleton, nerves, fasciae, anatomical spaces, blood vessels, lymphatics, and surface anatomy (p < 0.0001) significantly higher than IM residents, but there were no differences in the rating of muscles or organs (p > 0.0056). It was notable that 100.0% of cranial nerves were classified as essential, and 94.5% of surface anatomy structures were classified as essential or more important. It is proposed that results of this study can serve to inform curricular development and revision. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Since investigation of the timing of the skeletal traits among the acetabula of different populations is lacking, this study aims to evaluate the relevance of geographical origin in the acetabulum aging process and in the usability of the SanMillán-Rissech aging method. The acetabula of 826 European North Americans derived from the Bass Collection (USA) have been analyzed and compared with 611 Portuguese acetabula from the Luis Lopes Collection (Portugal) applying the most updated acetabular age estimation technique (2017). After evaluating and comparing the acetabular aging rates between both populations by Mann–Whitney U tests, the inaccuracy values (bias and absolute error) were analyzed and compared using population-specific reference samples and using references differing in geographical origin by Wilcoxon tests. In general terms, the North Americans age faster than the Portuguese, especially the females, reaching the consecutive acetabular stages at younger ages. Regarding the SanMillán-Rissech method accuracy, using population-specific reference samples produces, as a general rule, better outcomes. In addition, an exhaustive meta-analysis of inaccuracy values has demonstrated that this method provides better estimation values than pubic symphysis and auricular surfaces regardless of the geographic coherence of the reference sample. These inter-population skeletal differences are derived from different factors than age, highlighting the impact of both biological and social background on age estimation. A thorough analysis of the skeletal age-based timing becomes essential to understanding, deciphering and being able to minimize bias and potential inaccuracy or even counteract them when applying the age estimation methods to different populations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Study Design: Retrospective comparative study. Objectives: To compare radiological and functional outcomes of patients with fixation constructs utilizing pedicle screw stabilization at the fracture level (FL group) versus patients with non-fracture level (NFL group) fixation in single level fractures of the thoracolumbar junction (T11-L1). Methods: 53 patients of whom fracture level screw was used in 34 (FL group) were compared to 19 patients in NFL group. Radiological parameters analyzed were sagittal index, bi-segmental kyphosis (Cobb) angle and degree of vertebral height restoration. Prospectively collected patient reported functional outcomes and post-operative complications were also studied. Stepwise regression analysis adjusted by age, gender and functional scores was performed to account for the small numbers and unequal sizes of the groups. Results: Back pain score was significantly lower in the FL group (P < 0.025). Core Outcome Measures Index scores and leg pain scores, though low in the FL group, were not statistically significant. The regression analysis showed that the inclusion of the fracture-level screw was independently associated with a greater change in sagittal index and vertebral height restoration post-operatively. Sagittal index was maintained through to final follow up as well. The bi-segmental Cobb's angle correction was not associated with fracture-level screw construct. There was no significant difference between the groups for revision surgery, deep infection, implant failure or length of hospital stay. Conclusion: The inclusion of the fracture-level pedicle screws in the fixation construct significantly improves the immediate and final measured radiological parameters, with improved functional scores in single level unstable vertebral fractures of the thoracolumbar junction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Copyright of Chinese Journal of Tissue Engineering Research / Zhongguo Zuzhi Gongcheng Yanjiu is the property of Chinese Journal of Tissue Engineering Research and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Chinese Journal of Tissue Engineering Research / Zhongguo Zuzhi Gongcheng Yanjiu is the property of Chinese Journal of Tissue Engineering Research and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Purpose: With the increasing significance of diagnostic imaging in clinical practice, long-term anatomical education and training is required to ensure that students can reliably distinguish anatomical structures and interpret images. To improve students' motivation and prospects for learning imaging anatomy, we developed an integrated anatomical practice program combining cadaveric dissection with cadaver CT data processing and analysis during undergraduate students' dissection courses. Methods: Workstations imported with post-mortem CT data of dissected cadavers and various forms of clinical CT/MRI data were set in the dissection room. Medical students had free access to the imaging data during cadaver dissection, and they were challenged to process and analyze the data for submission of voluntary imaging reports on their topics of interest. Finally, we surveyed the integrated anatomical education of 481 medical students. Results: The positive response rate to the integrated anatomical practice was 74.9%, and 79.4% of the students answered that this form of practice offered a suitable introduction to anatomical imaging. The usefulness of this approach in understanding the 2- to 3D arrangement of the human body and enhancing interest in anatomy was also confirmed. The submission rate of voluntary imaging reports also increased annually and is currently 97.4%. Conclusion: Our integrated anatomical practice only allowed students to actively browse CT images and facilitated imaging processing and analysis of their region of interest. This practice may improve students' long-term ability to analyze images and deepen their understanding. A competitive imaging contest may help improve students' motivation when they begin learning imaging anatomy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To investigate the prevalence of 11 thoracic vertebrae (TVs), four lumbar vertebrae (LVs) and six LVs among asymptomatic Chinese volunteers, and the influence of spine variations on the global spinal sagittal parameters. Methods: A total of 389 asymptomatic Chinese volunteers were recruited. Each subject underwent a full‐spine X‐ray examination with measurement of global spinal sagittal parameters. The radiographs were examined by a spine surgeon and a radiologist to determine the variation in the number of vertebrae. These parameters were used to compare individuals with five LVs to those with 11 TVs, four LVs, and six LVs. Results: The study population included 12 individuals (3.1%) with seven cervical vertebrae (C) + 11 thoracic vertebrae (T) + five lumbar vertebrae (L), 8 (2.1%) with 7C + 11T + 6L, 8 (2.1%) with 7C + 12T + 4L, and 15 (3.9%) with 7C + 12T + 6L. Compared to the 7C + 12T + 5L individuals, those with 7C + 11T + 5L had significantly lower C6–T5 Cobb values (P < 0.05); 7C + 12T + 4L individuals had significantly greater thoracic inlet angles (P < 0.05) and significantly lower pelvic tilt (P < 0.05); individuals with 7C + 12T + 6L had significantly greater sacral slope, pelvic tilt, pelvic incidence, and L1–5 Cobb values (all P < 0.05), but significantly lower thoracic inlet angle (P < 0.05). There were no significant differences in any of the parameters examined between the 7C + 11T + 6L group and the 7C + 12T + 5L group. Conclusions: Asymptomatic adults with 7C + 12T + 6L, 7C + 12T + 4L, and 7C + 11T + 5L presented with different spinal sagittal alignment compared to those with 7C + 12T + 5L. Compared to variation in the number of LVs, the variation in the number of TVs had less effect on global spinal sagittal parameters. Spinal surgeons and researchers should be aware of the effects of variation in numbers of TVs and LVs on global spinal parameters and sagittal balance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To become skilled physicians, medical students must master surface anatomy. However, the study of surface anatomy is less emphasized in medical and allied health science curricula, and the time devoted to direct engagement with the human body is limited. This scoping review was designed to answer one research question: "What are the elements and strategies that are effective in teaching surface anatomy?" The review was performed using a five‐stage scoping review framework, including research question identification, relevant study identification, study selection, data charting, and result collating and reporting. Three databases were searched using two search terms combined with a Boolean operator: "teaching" and "surface anatomy." The initial pool of 3,294 sources was assessed for duplication, and study eligibility was evaluated using inclusion and exclusion criteria. Data were abstracted from 26 original articles by one researcher and verified by two other researchers. A thematic analysis was performed, and several elements of effective teaching strategies for surface anatomy were identified, namely contextualized teaching, embracing experiential learning, and learning facilitation. This review revealed that a multimodal approach was most commonly used in surface anatomy instruction. Hence, future research should explore the effectiveness of multimodal teaching strategies that adopt the three aforementioned primary elements of effective teaching in an authentic learning environment. It is pertinent to clarify the effectiveness of these teaching strategies by evaluating their impact on student learning, organizational changes, and benefits to other stakeholders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In contrast to medical education, information on the use of arts as a learning approach is scarce in veterinary anatomy. The aim of this prospective, questionnaire‐based study was to survey students' use of drawing in various aspects of veterinary anatomy learning (self‐study, examinations, preparation for, and reflection on cadaver dissection). The quantitative data showed that first‐year students with artistic preferences used drawing significantly more often in most aspects of anatomy learning than students with no such preferences, apart from the reported use of drawing in examinations and for reflection after cadaver dissection. The lack of significant correlations of the reported use of drawing in examinations with any other study variable provided support for the author's observation that student‐generated drawings are not as commonly used in examinations as previously. In contrast to the study hypothesis, previous university studies did not correlate significantly with any aspect of the use of drawing in anatomy learning. None of the reported uses of drawing addressed the benefits of drawing in learning the comparative anatomy of animal species, a characteristic distinguishing veterinary anatomy from human anatomy. Qualitative student feedback indicated that encouragement and teacher‐produced images would increase the use of drawing as a learning approach even if the implementation of drawing into the curriculum is not feasible. Conclusions from this study were implemented through self‐directed learning in anatomy courses that replaced the canceled cadaveric dissections during the COVID‐19 outbreak and also through the ongoing drawing workshops to further advance the use of drawing in veterinary anatomy learning. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: We aim to describe the parotid fascia as a landmark that can help identify the immediately underlying facial nerve trunk. Methods: Dissection of the parotid fascia and identification of the facial nerve trunk were carried out on 8 fresh cadaveric parotid glands. The attachments and arrangement of the parotid gland and its fascia were evaluated and histologically assessed, with special attention to the fascia overlying the facial nerve trunk. Results: The parotid fascia envelops the posterior aspect of the parotid gland in an open-book fashion. Posteriorly, it connects to the anterior and medial aspect of the mastoid tip. Posterosuperiorly, it attaches to the inferior aspect of the tragal pointer. Directly medial to the fascia lies the facial nerve trunk. Conclusion: The parotid fascia, particularly the parotid–mastoid segment overlying the facial nerve trunk, can be utilized as an additional landmark of depth to help identify the facial nerve trunk during a parotidectomy in conjunction with other commonly used standard anatomic landmarks. The parotid fascia sling spans from the mastoid and tragal pointer to the parotid gland and can be easily palpated intraoperatively. Once the fascia is removed, the facial nerve trunk is identified. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Botulinum toxin type A (BoNT-A) injection administered at an inappropriate site or depth can produce an unwanted change in facial animation because the depressor anguli oris (DAO) and depressor labii inferioris (DLI) muscles are partially overlapped. Therefore, simple BoNT-A injection guidelines, based on 3-dimensional (3D) facial anatomic references and landmarks, would be very useful.Objectives: The aim of this study was to establish novel BoNT-A injection guidelines that include the soft tissue thickness at the lower perioral region. Data were acquired with a 3D scanning system combined with dissections in order to obtain accurate injection sites and depths for the DAO and DLI.Methods: 3D scans of the facial skin, superficial fat, and facial muscle surface were performed in 45 embalmed cadavers. The thicknesses of the skin and subcutaneous layer were calculated automatically from superimposed images at each of 5 reference points (P) in the perioral region.Results: In every case (100%), P3 and P5 were located in the DLI and DAO areas, respectively (45/45). Therefore, we defined P3 as the "DLI point" and P5 as the "DAO point." The soft tissue thicknesses at the DLI and DAO points were 6.4 [1.7] mm and 6.7 [1.8] mm, respectively.Conclusions: The P3 and P5 described in this study are effective guidelines that only target the DLI and DAO. Clinicians, specifically, can easily use facial landmarks, such as the cheilion and pupil, to assign the DLI and DAO points without any measurement or palpation of the modiolus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The mental spines are bony prominences found in the lingual surface of anterior mandible, and usually they are arranged in two groups, superior pair and inferior pair. Mostly they are asymptomatic, but sometimes they may interfere with the prosthodontic treatment or with some surgeries. The lingual foramen can be found in different locations around the mental spines, and they are very important vital organ because they transmit nerves and arteries, which may cause a serious problem during some types of surgeries in this region such as implant placement. Here, we report a case of 55-year-old, Kurdish woman with elongated superior mental spine with bilaterally lingual foramina located distally to lower central incisors, that have been seen during a routine CBCT scan. The length of the spine was 6.4 mm, the height was 5.5 mm and the width was 1.9 mm. So, any dentist wants to perform any type of surgery in sublingual and submental regions should be careful of such anatomical variations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The benefits of a comparatively inexpensive radiographic system such as the Lodox® scanner in forensic facilities where CT-imaging and radiologist support is not financially viable will be explored. Prodigious caseloads in many under-resourced mortuaries preclude the use of advanced radiological modalities. The aim of this research is to examine the utilization of the Lodox® scanner in one of the busiest mortuaries in South Africa in relation to the nature of the cases scanned and, furthermore, to provide case studies where this imaging modality proved vital in the examination of the deceased and in the approach to the autopsy. The research is a retrospective epidemiological review on the use of the Lodox® scanner at the Salt River Medico-legal Laboratory, Cape Town, South Africa, from 1 January 2017 to 31 December 2017. A total of 3885 cases was admitted to the mortuary; the majority was scanned. A large proportion of cases were male. Ages ranged from foetuses to the elderly. The manner of death in more than a third of the cases was homicide which mainly involved firearm fatalities. This was followed by natural deaths. Pertinent case studies are presented to demonstrate that the use of the Lodox® scanner as an adjunct (or even obviating autopsy) proves to save time and labour and is financially beneficial. In conclusion, the Lodox® scanner is an indispensable tool in mortuaries with heavy caseloads because its use improves quality assurance, saves time, and is cost effective in the examination of both natural and unnatural deaths. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Localization of the facial nerve trunk (FNT) [i.e., the portion of the facial nerve between the stylomastoid foramen (SMF) and pes anserinus] may be required during various surgical interventions such as parotidectomy and hypoglossal-facial anastomosis. Several landmarks have been proposed for efficient identification of the FNT. We sought to assess the anatomical features of the digastric branch of the facial nerve (DBFN) and its potential as a landmark to identify FNT. Methods: Fifteen sides of eight cadaveric heads were dissected to find the DBFN. Anatomic features of DBFN including its point of origin relative to SMF, length, and important relationships, as well as the distance between the insertion point on the digastric muscle and mastoid tip were recorded. Results: DBFN was found in all specimens originating from the FNT outside the SMF with an average length (± standard deviation) of 15.4 ± 3.4 mm. In all specimens, the DBFN inserted on the superomedial aspect of the posterior belly of the digastric muscle (PBD). In 8/15 specimens, DBFN was accompanied by the stylomastoid artery on its anteromedial side. Average distance (± standard deviation) between the mastoid tip and the nerve insertion point on PBD was 13.6 ± 2.0 mm (range 10–17). Conclusions: The DBFN is a reliable landmark for identifying the FNT. It could be consistently identified within 15–20 mm of the mastoid tip on the superomedial aspect of the PBD. The DBFN may be used as a supplementary landmark for efficient localization of the FNT. Level of evidence: Not applicable (anatomic study). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

While dissection remains the method of choice for teaching human anatomy, ethical requirements for obtaining cadavers has made the process of acquiring human bodies more strenuous for institutions. In Africa and at the School of Anatomical Sciences in South Africa, dependence on unclaimed bodies has been prevalent. The aim of the present study was to determine whether more rigorous application of ethical consent has altered the provenance of the cadavers in the School of Anatomical Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand. The numbers of bequeathed/donated/unclaimed cadavers received over the period 2013–2017, as well as their sex and population affinity were analyzed. The majority (96.8%) of the cadavers dissected over the period were from bequests/donations. Marginally more females than males were available. In addition, the population affinity of the cadavers had changed from a majority of South African African (unclaimed) bodies to a majority of South African White (bequest/donated) bodies. The study shows that even with ethical constraints it is possible to transition from the use of mainly unclaimed bodies to the acquisition of bequeathed/donor bodies. However, there may be challenges in relation to anatomical collections in the School as few of the bequest/donated cadavers remain in the School to be added to the collections. These changes also affect the demographics of the Schools' collections. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the acceptance of the Daubert criteria as the standards for best practice in forensic anthropological research, more emphasis is being placed on the validation of published methods. Methods, both traditional and novel, need to be validated, adjusted, and refined for optimal performance within forensic anthropological analyses. Recently, a custom postcranial database of modern South Africans was created for use in Fordisc 3.1. Classification accuracies of up to 85% for ancestry estimation and 98% for sex estimation were achieved using a multivariate approach. To measure the external validity and report more realistic performance statistics, an independent sample was tested. The postcrania from 180 black, white, and colored South Africans were measured and classified using the custom postcranial database. A decrease in accuracy was observed for both ancestry estimation (79%) and sex estimation (95%) of the validation sample. When incorporating both sex and ancestry simultaneously, the method achieved 70% accuracy, and 79% accuracy when sex-specific ancestry analyses were run. Classification matrices revealed that postcrania were more likely to misclassify as a result of ancestry rather than sex. While both sex and ancestry influence the size of an individual, sex differences are more marked in the postcranial skeleton and are therefore easier to identify. The external validity of the postcranial database was verified and therefore shown to be a useful tool for forensic casework in South Africa. While the classification rates were slightly lower than the original method, this is expected when a method is generalized. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Anatomical relationships are challenging concepts for first‐year medical students. The use of progressive drawing, where an image is created from a blank template, has long been utilized for outlining anatomical relationships and continuity from one region to another, and has shown positive outcomes for student learning. More recently, computerized progressive drawing has been introduced; however, challenges, including issues with visual clarity, have been described. In this study, 17 computerized screencasts of drawings covering neurovasculature of the limbs, abdomen, pelvis, head, and neck were created and provided to first‐year medical students at Morehouse School of Medicine. An animated method for drawing was utilized to increase visual clarity. Surveys were provided to 181 first‐year medical students to collect feedback about these screencasts. Sixty percent (n = 108) of students completed at least one survey. Respondents rated all 17 screencasts with a minimum of 4.7/5 for helpfulness in learning the material for course examinations. A majority of students (77.8%) reported viewing the screencasts more than once on at least one survey, and students reported varying methods for utilizing the screencasts. A majority of students provided positive feedback relating to technical quality. Some significant differences in course performance were seen based on screencast usage. The positive responses from students indicate that this is a useful method in medical education. Anat Sci Educ 11: 445–460. © 2018 American Association of Anatomists. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The village and street dogs represent a unique model of canine populations. In the absence of selective breeding and veterinary care, they are subject mostly to natural selection. Their analyses contribute to understanding general mechanisms governing the genetic diversity, evolution and adaptation. In this study, we analyzed the genetic diversity and population structure of African village dogs living in villages in three different geographical areas in Northern Kenya. Data obtained for neutral microsatellite molecular markers were compared with those computed for potentially non-neutral markers of candidate immunity-related genes. The neutral genetic diversity was similar to other comparable village dog populations studied so far. The overall genetic diversity in microsatellites was higher than the diversity of European pure breeds, but it was similar to the range of diversity observed in a group composed of many European breeds, indicating that the African population has maintained a large proportion of the genetic diversity of the canine species as a whole. Microsatellite marker diversity indicated that the entire population is subdivided into three genetically distinct, although closely related subpopulations. This genetical partitioning corresponded to their geographical separation and the observed gene flow well correlated with the communication patterns among the three localities. In contrast to neutral microsatellites, the genetic diversity in immunity-related candidate SNP markers was similar across all three subpopulations and to the European group. It seems that the genetic structure of this particular population of Kenyan village dogs is mostly determined by geographical and anthropogenic factors influencing the gene flow between various subpopulations rather than by biological factors, such as genetic contribution of original migrating populations and/or the pathogen-mediated selection. On the other hand, the study of oldest surviving dogs suggested a biological mechanism, i.e. a possible advantage of the overal heterozygosity marked by the the microsatellite loci analyzed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Research on the benefits of visual learning has relied primarily on lecture-based pedagogy, but the potential benefits of combining active learning strategies with visual and verbal materials on learning anatomy has not yet been explored. In this study, the differential effects of text-based and image-based active learning exercises on examination performance were investigated in a functional anatomy course. Each class session was punctuated with an average of 12 text-based and image-based active learning exercises. Participation data from 231 students were compared with their examination performance on 262 questions associated with the in-class exercises. Students also rated the helpfulness and difficulty of the in-class exercises on a survey. Participation in the active learning exercises was positively correlated with examination performance ( r = 0.63, P < 0.001). When controlling for other key demographics (gender, underrepresented minority status) and prior grade point average, participation in the image-based exercises was significantly correlated with performance on examination questions associated with image-based exercises ( P < 0.001) and text-based exercises ( P < 0.01), while participation in text-based exercises was not. Additionally, students reported that the active learning exercises were helpful for seeing images of key ideas (94%) and clarifying key course concepts (80%), and that the image-based exercises were significantly less demanding, less hard and required less effort than text-based exercises ( P < 0.05). The findings confirm the positive effect of using images and active learning strategies on student learning, and suggest that integrating them may be especially beneficial for learning anatomy. Anat Sci Educ 10: 444-455. © 2017 American Association of Anatomists. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Anatomy educators are increasing their utilisation of radiology in anatomy education in line with growing requirements for undergraduate radiology competency and clinical need. Aims: We aimed to evaluate student perceptions of radiology and to outline the technical and academic considerations underlying the integration of radiology into musculoskeletal practical anatomy sessions. Materials and methods: The formal integration of radiology into anatomy practical sessions took place over a 5-week period during the lower limb musculoskeletal component of the anatomy course taught to first-year medical students. During practical sessions, students were required to rotate between aligned audio-visual radiology presentations, osteology/anatomical models, and prosection/dissection learning stations. After completing the course, students were invited to complete a survey to establish their opinions on radiology as a mode of learning and their satisfaction with radiological integration in anatomical practical sessions. Results: Most students were not familiar with radiology prior to attending our university. All our students agreed or strongly agreed that learning to read radiographs in anatomy is important and most agreed that radiology is a valid assessment tool. Sixty percent stated that radiology facilitated their understanding of anatomy. The majority believed that radiology was best suited to clinically relevant anatomy and X-rays were their preferred learning tool. Conclusions: The practical approach to integrating radiology into undergraduate musculoskeletal anatomy described here did not place strain on existing academic resources. Most students agreed that radiology should be increased in anatomy education and that learning to understand radiographs in anatomy was important for clinical practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An accurate knowledge of anatomy, especially natural variation within individuals, is of vital clinical importance. Cadaver dissection during anatomical training may be a valuable introduction to pathology for undergraduate students, which can contribute greatly to a successful medical career. The purpose of this study was to determine the extent and type of pathology lesions in a cadaver population ( n = 127) used for medical dissection. This was done to gauge whether sufficient pathology lesions representative of all the organ systems were present in the cadaver population to warrant the use of cadavers as an additional pathology learning resource. This study demonstrated a wide variety of pathology lesions in different organ systems. The respiratory system was most affected with pulmonary tuberculosis (TB) lesions being the most common finding (seen in 76% of cadavers) followed by bronchopneumonia and emphysema. Other common pathology findings included atherosclerosis, colonic diverticula, and chronic pyelonephritis. Skeletal fractures and degenerative joint disease were also noted. This study shows that cadaveric dissection offers a chance to alert and expose students to a wide variety of gross pathology and histopathology. It has been suggested that most medical students will practice in primary health care and as such more attention should be given to the pathology of commonly encountered diseases. This is particularly true for developing countries, where diseases such as TB are commonly encountered. The integration of pathology into the dissection hall may therefore be beneficial to student learning while simultaneously optimizing the use of cadaver material. Anat Sci Educ 9: 575-582. © 2016 American Association of Anatomists. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the study was to report on a case of isolated spontaneous fracture of the genial tubercles, an uncommon pathological condition, the onset of which may be associated with non-specific but potentially life-threatening signs and symptoms, such as haematoma or swelling of the oral floor. We conducted a literature review to identify similar cases, focusing on their diagnosis, management and causes. To date, only 15 cases of spontaneous genial tubercle fracture have been described in 14 reports in the English medical literature. Patients were mainly female, with a mean age of 70 years. Only 5/15 cases (33%) were managed surgically, the others (66%) conservatively. A full functional recovery of the tongue movements, swallowing and talking is achievable with conservative therapy in most cases, but surgery is indicated for patients with persistent dysfunction or clinical discomfort. The case described here was treated conservatively, consistently with the literature, with active observation, corticosteroids and prophylactic i.v. antibiotic therapy leading to a complete recovery within a few weeks. Though extremely uncommon, genial tubercle fracture should be included in the differential diagnosis of haematoma and swelling of the oral floor. It is potentially life-threatening, requiring active monitoring and careful airway management. Conservative procedures and a long-term follow-up are needed to control possible functional restrictions and symptoms, and surgical treatment should be considered in refractory cases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: To evaluate the available evidence for the clinical effectiveness and biohazard safety of a full-body digital X-ray imaging system (Lodox) in acute medical emergencies.Methods: Electronic databases (including PubMed, Embase and the Cochrane Library; up to January 2014) and reference lists of articles were searched. The quality of the included studies was determined, and a narrative assessment was undertaken.Results: A total of 256 articles were reviewed. Fifteen clinical studies and eight case series met the eligibility criteria. All 23 studies reporting use of a full-body X-ray imaging system in acute medical emergencies on Lodox. Based on figures in six studies comprising various evaluation methods, image quality of Lodox was mostly comparable to that of conventional X-rays and the radiation dose was considerably lower. Lodox demonstrated a sensitivity ranging from 62% to 73%, and a specificity ranging from 99% to 100% compared with CT for the evaluation of emergency patients with polytrauma, which is similar to that of conventional X-rays. Examination time using Lodox ranged from 3.5  to 13.9 min compared with 8 to 25.7 min using conventional X-rays. However, there was no evidence it significantly shortened resuscitation time or emergency department length of stay. Publication bias might have occurred; some published studies might have been influenced by conflicts of interest.Conclusions: The Lodox machine is capable of rapidly scanning the entire body and offers an equivalent diagnostic assessment tool compared with conventional X-rays. It seems to have the potential to reduce cumulative radiation dosage for emergency patients compared with conventional X-rays. Application of Lodox might be helpful to reduce resource use and simplify care in lower-resourced areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background A safe and easy anatomical landmark is proposed to identify the facial nerve in parotid surgery. The facial nerve forms the center point between the base of the styloid process and the origin of the posterior belly of the digastric muscle. Objective To evaluate the consistency, accuracy, and safety of the landmark in identifying the facial nerve. Methods The study was designed in three steps: a cadaver study, a radiologic study, and a prospective clinical study. Anatomy was initially studied in two cadavers. Then the images of 200 temporal styloid regions were studied for consistency of the presence of the styloid base. In the second part of the radiologic study, the distance between the styloid base and the origin of the posterior belly of the digastric muscle was studied in 50 parotid regions. The clinical study involved 25 patients who underwent parotidectomy. Results The styloid base was present in all the images studied. The mean distance between the styloid base and the origin of the posterior belly of the digastric was found to be 0.72 cm (range: 0.45-0.99 cm). The facial nerve could be identified consistently and safely in all patients. Conclusion This trident landmark provided safe, accurate, and easy identification of the facial nerve using two fixed bony landmarks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use of radiology in the teaching of anatomy to medical students is gaining in popularity; however, there is wide variation in how and when radiology is introduced into the curriculum. The authors sought to investigate students' perceptions regarding methods used to depict and teach anatomy and effects of integrated radiology instruction on students' abilities to correctly identify imaging modalities and anatomical structures on radiological images. First-year medical students completed questionnaires at the beginning and end of the first academic year that incorporated ten hours of radiologic anatomy teaching in the anatomy curriculum. Questions used a combination of Likert scales, rankings, and binary options. Students were tested on their ability to identify radiology modalities and anatomical structures on radiology images. Preresponse and postresponse rates were 93% (157/168) and 85% (136/160), respectively. Postmodule, 96.3% of students wanted the same or more radiology integration. Furthermore, 92.4% premodule and 96.2% postmodule agreed that 'Radiology is important in medical undergraduate teaching.' Modality and structure identification scores significantly increased from 59.8% to 64.3% ( P < 0.001) and from 47.4% to 71.2% ( P < 0.001), respectively. The top three preferred teaching formats premodule and postmodule were (1) anatomy laboratory instruction, (2) interactive sessions combining radiology with anatomy, and (3) anatomy lectures. Postmodule, 38.3% of students were comfortable reviewing radiology images. Students were positive about integrating radiology into anatomy teaching and most students wanted at least the same level of assimilation but that it is used as an adjunct rather than primary method of teaching anatomy. Anat Sci Educ 8: 510-517. © 2014 American Association of Anatomists. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Although medical curricula now adopt an integrated teaching approach, this is not adequately reflected in assessment of anatomy knowledge and skills. In this study, we aimed to explore the impact of the addition of clinical vignette to item stems on students' performance in anatomy practical examinations. In this study, 129 undergraduate medical students of Durham University took part in a 30-item anatomy practical test consisting of those with and without clinical stem, in a crossover design. Classical test theory was used to analyze item difficulty, discrimination index, point biserial, and reliability. Student performance on items with clinical stem and the percentage of students who correctly answered each item was significantly improved by the addition of a clinical stem in the Year 2 cohort. Also, items with a clinical stem showed much better discrimination index than non-clinical items in the Year 2 cohort. In contrast, there was no significant difference in item performance, student performance and discrimination index between items with a clinical and non-clinical stem in Year 1 cohort. Over 65% of test items in both year groups were of good quality with point biserial exceeding 0.2. However, Year 1 test reliability for non-clinical items was better than clinical items. The results raise question as to what level to apply this method of assessment in undergraduate education. Although interpreted on the basis of a relatively small item sample, the findings support the need for improving anatomy practical examinations in line with overriding curricula changes. Anat Sci Educ 8: 221-229. © 2014 American Association of Anatomists. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Stylomastoid foramen is an important site for Nadbath facial nerve block. Exact localization of foramen holds the key to success, thus decreasing the complications. Wide racial variation exists in position of stylomastoid foramen in different population groups. Aim: The aim was to study the morphometry of stylomastoid foramen and its location with respect to nearby anatomical landmarks. Materials and Methods: A total of 100 dry skulls (60 male and 40 female) were studied to locate the position of center of stylomastoid foramen (CSMF) with respect to tip and anterior border of the mastoid process and jugular foramen (JF). Along with this angle between antero-posterior line passing through the tip of the mastoid process and line joining the tip with stylomastoid foramen was also measured. Result: In 83.51% sides of skulls, the most common position of foramen was found to be anterior to the line passing through anterior border of the mastoid process. The mean distance of center of foramen from the tip of the mastoid process was 15.26 ± 1.4 mm on right and 14.32 ± 1.8 on the left side (P < 0.001) and from JF was 12.28 ± 1.9 mm and 12.96 ± 2.1 mm on the right and left sides, respectively (P < 0.01). The position of CSMF was found at an angle of 66.57° ± 2.6° and 65.96° ± 1.8° on the right and left sides, respectively from the tip of the mastoid process. Conclusion: This study makes possible the identification of the exact position of stylomastoid foramen and its application in facial nerve block. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It is essential for medical students to learn and comprehend human anatomy in three dimensions (3D). With this in mind, a new system was designed in order to integrate anatomical dissections with diagnostic computed tomography (CT) radiology. Cadavers were scanned by CT scanners, and students then consulted the postmortem CT images during cadaver dissection to gain a better understanding of 3D human anatomy and diagnostic radiology. Students used handheld digital imaging and communications in medicine viewers at the bench-side (OsiriX on iPod touch or iPad), which enabled 'pixel-to-tissue' direct comparisons of CT images and cadavers. Students had lectures and workshops on diagnostic radiology, and they completed study assignments where they discussed findings in the anatomy laboratory compared with CT radiology findings. This teaching method for gross and radiological anatomy was used beginning in 2009, and it yielded strongly positive student perspectives and significant improvements in radiology skills in later clinical courses. Anat Sci Educ 7: 438-449. © 2014 American Association of Anatomists. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hands-on educational experiences can stimulate student interest, increase knowledge retention, and enhance development of clinical skills. The Lachman test, used to assess the integrity of the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL), is commonly performed by health care professionals and is relatively easy to teach to first-year health profession students. This study integrated teaching the Lachman test into a first-year anatomy laboratory and examined if students receiving the training would be more confident, competent, and if the training would enhance anatomical learning. First-year medical, physician assistant and physical therapy students were randomly assigned into either the intervention (Group A) or control group (Group B). Both groups received the course lecture on knee anatomy and training on how to perform the Lachman test during a surface anatomy class. Group A received an additional 15 minutes hands-on training for the Lachman test utilizing a lightly embalmed cadaver as a simulated patient. One week later, both groups performed the Lachman test on a lightly embalmed cadaver and later completed a post-test and survey. Students with hands-on training performed significantly better than students with lecture-only training in completing the checklist, a post-test, and correctly diagnosing an ACL tear. Students in Group A also reported being more confident after hands-on training compared to students receiving lecture-only training. Both groups reported that incorporating clinical skill activities facilitated learning and created excitement for learning. Hands-on training using lightly embalmed cadavers as patient simulators increased confidence and competence in performing the Lachman test and aided in learning anatomy. Anat Sci Educ 7: 181-190. © 2013 American Association of Anatomists. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Gross anatomy is no longer considered a science, as it is no longer considered a research-led discipline. Looking to the current status of anatomical teaching, there is worldwide unanimity regarding the steady decline in the provision of contact hours of this basic science in a crowded undergraduate curriculum. The same could apply at the postgraduate level for specialties where surgical anatomy is essential. The long-term consequence of this shortage of optimal anatomical knowledge is thought to have implications on patient safety.Summary: Where are we now? Anatomy has been, and is still, severely affected by a content and extent reduction policy in most medical schools. Such suboptimal anatomy education has been linked to an increase in some types of medico-legal claims. This could be due in part to the rapid rise of modern learning approaches, lack of gross anatomy teachers, and lack of structured programs. Which direction are we taking, and where do we need to go? The introduction of surface anatomy at the undergraduate level, the implementation of surgical anatomy courses at the postgraduate level, and the revival of dissection courses at both levels could be measures that change the direction of the actual status. How do we get there? (a) The implementation of a national anatomy core curriculum by local medical education societies with a requirement stating the provision of a clinically oriented surface anatomy course. (b) Making room for the time-tested dissection method to be taught in gross anatomy at both levels. (c) The development of explicit and formal teaching in surgical anatomy via postgraduate courses for the concerned specialties. (d) An evaluation of the 3D visualization technology and surgical simulation applied to anatomy teaching.Conclusions: The current suboptimal anatomy knowledge should be acknowledged, and ways to change the course should be searched for. I present my views for possible and practical solutions by introducing surface anatomy at an undergraduate level, implementing surgical anatomy courses at a postgraduate level, and returning to the dissection room at both levels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

After a considerable amount of research and experimentation, cat dissection was replaced with rat dissection and clay modeling in the human anatomy and physiology laboratory curricula at La Guardia Community College (LAGCC), a large urban community college of the City University of New York (CUNY). This article describes the challenges faculty overcame and the techniques used to solve them. Methods involved were: developing a laboratory manual in conjunction with the publisher, holding training sessions for faculty and staff, the development of instructional outlines for students and lesson plans for faculty, the installation of storage facilities to hold mannequins instead of cat specimens, and designing mannequin clean-up techniques that could be used by more than one thousand students each semester. The effectiveness of these curricular changes was assessed by examining student muscle practical examination grades and the responses of faculty and students to questionnaires. The results demonstrated that the majority of faculty felt prepared to teach using clay modeling and believed the activity was effective in presenting lesson content. Students undertaking clay modeling had significantly higher muscle practical examination grades than students undertaking cat dissection, and the majority of students believed that clay modeling was an effective technique to learn human skeletal, respiratory, and cardiovascular anatomy, which included the names and locations of blood vessels. Furthermore, the majority of students felt that rat dissection helped them learn nervous, digestive, urinary, and reproductive system anatomy. Faculty experience at LAGCC may serve as a resource to other academic institutions developing new curricula for large, on-going courses. Anat Sci Educ. 7: 38-46. © 2013 American Association of Anatomists. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]